New ‘impossible’ space engine breaks the laws of physics and could get us to Mars in just weeks

The EmDrive apparently breaks the laws of physics (Picture: Satellite Propulsion Research Ltd)

NASA has given the green light to further tests of a new type of ‘impossible’ engine that provides thrust without propellant – an apparent violation of the laws of physics.

In a paper, the space agency confirmed that the Cannae Drive had produced small amounts of thrust from the engine despite using zero propellant, a discovery that seems to violate the conservation of momentum, which states every action must have an equal and opposite reaction.

The discovery – though sparking immediate scepticism – could revolutionise space travel by removing the need for millions of dollars-worth of fuel which must be carefully controlled and fired in short bursts.

Space shuttles must carefully manipulate their fuel throughout a flight – which a Cannae Drive-powered rocket wouldn’t have to do (Picture: Dalriada50)

If a large-scale drive works in the same way as the test system, it means we could reach in Mars in weeks rather than the projected nine months.

The drive works by using the properties of radiation pressure, where an electromagnetic wave carries a small amount of momentum which, when it hits a reflector, can translate into thrust.

The Cannae Drive uses the same technology as another fuel-less thruster, the EmDrive, invented by British Scientist Roger Shawyer and tested by Chinese engineers.

The Cannae Drive is named for the Battle of Cannae, where the Carthaginian general Hannibal defeated a much larger Roman army – not for Star Trek’s Scotty.